From our friend Jim Plouffe ,Editor of "THE LEAD SOUTH AUSTRALIA".

World renowned for its wine, South Australia’s capital Adelaide was recently included in the exclusive Great Wine Capitals Global Network featuring the world’s pre-eminent wine cities.

It is also developing a strong cycling culture and hosts the Tour Down Under every year, a portion of which includes cycling through the iconic Barossa Valley vineyards, located 60km northeast of Adelaide.

The inclusion of cycling trails in South Australia’s premier wine regions is giving tourists more freedom to explore the state and enjoy its world famous wine at the same time.

There are even chances for visitors to experience some of the native wildlife as well, including kangaroos, cockatoos and echidnas.

The latest addition to the wine bicycle trails is the Barossa Cycling Hub, which was established last year and provides bikes for hire, including power and assisted bikes for beginners or less confident riders.

It also acts as a bike lock-up centre, and provides riders with interpretive maps and access to cycling accessories.

Craig Grocke, who is in charge of economic development at the Regional Development Australia Barossa, said the hub was established to help cater to South Australia’s growing cycling culture and allows visitors more riding opportunities.

“South Australia has really grown internationally and has become a bit more known for its cycling culture – I think the Tour Down Under has been a big promo of that,” he said.

“The cycling hub is an effective way to help people get out and experience the region. It is also a chance for us to diversify the wine region offerings.”

Picture: Tony Tervoert

The award-winning hub is situated in the town of Tanunda and is the start and finish of a 40km sealed bike path network through the famous Barossa Valley.

The trail has averaged 320 trips per day since opening in January 2015 and is used as a meeting point for riders to begin their Barossa tour...

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Thank You JIM for sharing this with the SaddleDrunk Community.

All the best for the SD TEAM